August 13, 1206 Friday

(Fire Emblem Awakening ost - "And what if I can't? What if I'm not worthy of her ideals?")

"After two weeks of confusion and panic, a sense of quiet has finally settled down Heimdallr. This somber air comes after the funeral of Prince Olivert; a service unattended by his father, Emperor Eugent who remains in a coma. Furthermore, the Imperial Diet announced after an emergency session yesterday that the National Mobilization Law would be enacted immediately. The unanimously approved measures was put forth in response to a string of terrorist attacks masterminded by the Republic of Calvard. All Imperial subjects are required to offer their full cooperation at the government's request. With the new law in effect, the government has imposing rationing, instated a draft, and started requisitioning supplies for the army."

The TV was turned off by the remote caused by Master Hand as the Fighters of Smash Bros are all gathered

"Damn, this is worst then we thought." Cloud fold his arms. "With that law in effect, many Erebonian and businesses are going to increase the full might of the army."

"That ain't the only thing we're worried about." Escargoon said. "With this Great Twilight or whatever it's called, things have become tense."

"Yeah. So far they're focusing their intention in Calvard. Who knows what will happen after that." Dedede nodded.

"I'm scared..." Lucas shivered. "Ever since that black wave that appear in Erebonia... things weren't the same as it used to."

"Yeah. People are behaving differently... Any creatures from Animals to Pokemon loving in Erebonia has become tense." Ness nodded

"Hmph. I've encountered my fair share of demonic situations. However, this curse really gets my goat. And I don't like anyone or anything that gets my goat." Bayonetta folds her arms.

"Same. We were warned someday this would happen." Samus nodded. "And now that it come, a threat after Xehanort soon be upon us."

"Indeed." Arceus nodded. "Now that the curse has been completed, our plan to deal with this has set in motion. What's more, Erebonia and our enemies won't be sitting around while we come up with our plan."

"Indeed. Black Alberich along with many enemies has already begun building counter-measurements against us. With people like that jester, Ouroboros, the last remaining Agarthans, even Maleficent's group. Things will become difficult to handle."

"Not to mention that since Pokemon become part of the world, the Erebonian Army and many other nations decided to bring Pokemon units under their command. There are also Faunus, and many others who enlisted in the Imperial Army if they become Imperial citizens." Lucario added

"Them aside, you all remember what happen two weeks ago after The Great Twilight has begun?" Dark Pit asked.

"Yeah..." Pit rub his arm. "Atlas has fallen..."

"Yes. By Salem too."

"Salem has already made her move to destroy Atlas and Mantle. Who knows where she'll target next." Palutena muttered. "Regardless, we still need to counter the great threats is on this world."

"Indeed. Right now, we must continue helping Class VII and the others against this great threat. Soon a Great War will fall upon this world. We must do everything we can to prevent that from happening." Master Hand nodded. "Palutena, have they recovered?"

"The Old Class VII has recovered. New Class VII... aside from Venti are still in a coma."


In Peach's Castle...

"What happened to Prince Olivert was truly regrettable..." Edelgard clench her fist. "As well as Laura's father, and the Bracer Toval as well."

"I can imagine Princess Alfin is still under shock..." Peach look down sadden.

"We owe Prince Olivert so much. I still can't believe he's gone..." Claude said with woe. "His father was shot by Ash... But I don't believe that for a second."

"Yes. Palutena and the others told us that Ash was manipulated and even transported to the Emperor's residence." Sothis fold her arms. "Most likely one of our enemies, or even that detestable demon just stir everything up."

"And to make matters worst... Prince Cedric, Prince Olivert, his own younger brother betrayed everyone. The Gnomes and Osborne deserve unforgiving after what they did." Dimitri drenched his teeth as he glare at the table of the conference room.

"Yeah... We met Cedric before... but we never thought he would side with Osborne of all people... I should have turn back time and stop this from happening..." Byleth look down.

"You were in your honeymoon Byleth. None of us expected this world happen." Daisy told him. "I miss Olivert as well. But there's nothing we can do at this point. The only thing we can do is avenge him."

"Right." Mario tip his head. "Prince Olivert will always be remembered by all as a true prince and a true friend."

"Hmph. Osborne is certainly getting the death penalty." Bowser grumbled. "He and his Gnomes. All of them. But why Cedric sided with Osborne is beyond me."

"There must be a reason though." Peach said. "Cedric was a bright young man. He's kind and gentle like Princess Alfin. But after what happen to Emperor Eugent, he completely change into a new person."

"Well, what happened to his father did caused a trauma." Bowser look at Peach.

"Indeed. I can imagine what he's going through." Kamek nodded. "But right now, we need to focus on what we will do."

"Right. Everything is going everything as Mildine predicted. For the past two weeks, we been preparing in case with the Great Twilight. Just as the week before it appeared." Peach said. "I'm worried about Class VII."

"They'll be fine. They're that tough and stubborn." Bowser said. "Crow is with them after that Gral thing."

"Yes. And the Fighters who help them during that situation with the Gral." Byleth added. "We should-" The door knock.

"Come in." Peach called out as a Ninji appeared.

"Your Majesty. A report from the scout." A Ninji said.

"Well, what's going on?" Bowser asked

"There's a huge military parade going on in Heimdallr. The timing is suspicious."

"Why would they prepare a military parade on short notice?" Edelgard wondered.

"Something is going on." Dimitri rub his chin.

"We have live footage form our Boo scout. Shall we set it up on the monitor?" Ninji asked

Peach nodded. "Please." She said as the pressed the button on the TV and then the Ninji begin to connect to the live footage and they see it.

(BGM ended)


In Heimdallr...

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Trump Card for the Worst Situation)

In the streets of Heimdallr, a large Military Parade was assembled as many Erebonians are cheering them on. Soon they take part in Dreichel's District where another event is happening. Rufus, Cedric, Irina Reinford, Olaf Craig, Major Neithhardt, and Vandyke are here with several Soldots.

"It goes without saying, but a harsh, bitter struggle lies ahead of this nation. We find ourselves faced with a war, the like of which Erebonia has never seen." Vandyke said as Two large battleships flew over Heimdallr and stand next to the Valflame Palace. "But we will prove triumphant! We will bring to bear the finest strategies and the full might of the Imperial Army! And with the Reinford Group's cooperation, we now possess the greatest military force Zemuria has ever seen. I give you my waed that this conflict will be over within the year!" He yelled as it cause chatter among the people of Heimdallr.

Rufus then approached. "I come before you all today to announce the war council decision. We will punish the Republic of Calvard for their crimes and subjugate them under the might of the Empire."

Cedric then stepped up. "The Hour will be upon us soon! We will begin the greatest military operation in Erebonia history-Operation Jormungandr!" He yelled, causing cheered all over Erebonia.

Irina fold her arms while Olaf and Neighardt look rather displeased with everything, then they notice something in the distance.

"Jormunganr..." Said a woman with Silver hair, accompanied by a Furret. "The mythical serpent that swallows the world. It's a fitting name. Way too fitting, if you ask me."

Furr..." Her Furret let out a soft cry.

"I know. We should go." She nodded as she and her Furret then begin to leave the distracted and then headed to a good hiding place as she pull out her ARCUS Alpha. "This is Silver Streak. Jona, Professor, do you read me?"


In Crossbell...

"Is Randy serious about this?" One of the people muttered

"I hate to admit it, but it does sound like a good business opportunity." said an old woman.

"We're really going to put on a show without Ilya or Theodor?" One of the performers asked.

"Rixia's not going to be available for a while, either."

"We should talk about this once Sully gets back from the hospital."

"Hey, guys! Sorry I'm late!" A girl's voice called out as she along with a nurse and another person and Kylie Koopa approached them.

"Hold on, who are these people?" One of the performers asked.

"Aren't you that reporter? And you... Aren't you one of Llya's friends? Who's the Koopa girl?"

"Hi there. Good to see you again. And this is Kylie Koopa. She's a new friend." The reporter woman said.

"Hello!" Kylie waved her arm.

"Um... We joined up with Sully along the way. It's a long story." The Nurse said

"Y-You don't say...?"

"Sully? What's going on here?"

"Well..." Sully clenched her teeth. "Ilya's going to be moved from St. Ursula. They're sending her to the Mushroom Kingdom's hospital instead."

"What!?" The people yelled and looked shocked.

"B-But why so far?!"

"Unfortunately, I can't disclose that information." The nurse sighed. "However, you don't need to be concerned. Dr. Seiland used her connections to have Ilya will get there safely and her treatment continued without any problems. The medical knowledge and equipment in the Mushroom Kingdom is better than St. Ursula's."

"Well... I guess that's true. The Mushroom Kingdom did share its technology and knowledge with us."

"Right. Thanks to their knowledge and equipment, Ilya made some recovery quicker than expected."

"She did say she wanted to visit the place... Guess she'll have that chance..." Sully sighed


In Kokonoe's lab...

"So you still haven't been able to find Tio?" Jona asked as he and Kokonoe were monitoring in the computer.

"Sorry. Nothing yet, I'm afraid. None of my contacts have any clues, either." Said the silver hair woman.

"I thought as much." Kokonoe pull out a lollipop as she swirl it. "If she can't be seen, she must be taken by the enemy and closely disclose any information. That and she must be somewhere else that is outside of Heimdallr."

"I thought the same. Don't worry. I'm going to extend my search outside Heimdallr with my partner here." The Silver hair woman said.

"Fur~" Her Furrent cooed.

"Give us some more time and we'll sure we'll turn something up."

"Wh-Who said I was worried?" Jona fold his arms. "I'm sure Randolph's with her, after all."

"If he ain't after what happen in the Gral, then they were split up. Nothing we can do about it." Kokonoe told them.

"True. Then again, the Debaucherous Prince got himself blown up over there, so I guess-"

"Jona!" Tager yelled at him.

"Oh! Er, S-Sorry. Forget I said that."

"For a brat with a big brain, you sure know how to be frank." Kokonoe roll her eyes.

"S-Said the pot calling the kettle black!"

"All right, enough you too." Litchi scolded them. "Fighting over who's more blunt isn't going to help."

"Litchi's right. We have more things to worry about." Roy Carmine nodded

"Indeed. Let's get back to the topic for our sake." Targer tuck his classes. "As expected, Rufus is currently in Heimdallr for the time being."

"Yeah. We might not get another chance like this. Help those kids make the most of it." The Silver Hair woman nodded.

"Right. With that said. Continue your assignment while we'll monitor the situation here. Don't forget you still have that earpiece. Make use of it." Kokonoe told her.

"Understood. Thank you for your help, Professor." She nodded and sign off.

Jona let out a sighed. "Man, what a train wreck of a call. I don't know how to deal with stuff like that."

"Which is why we need you to work on your social skills. As well as a healthy diet and exercise." Litchi told him.

"Ugggh! I don't want to! I hate IRL stuff!"

"This isn't a video game Jona. You need to improve your health and your body. Being a shut-in isn't going to help you in life or online."

"Ugggh. What a pain! You sound like my mother! Get off my case, will ya?"

"I'm a doctor Jona. And I'm sure your parents will say the same."

"All right, we can talk about Jona life lesson another time." Targer said. "I wasn't expecting Prince Olivert's girlfriend to be... refined."

"Yeah. It's hard to imagine that he's going out with a woman like that. They're the complete opposite to each other." Roy Carmine nodded

"Well, as they say, opposites do attract to each other." Litchi giggled before frown. "They were a good match... I'm sorry for her... I can understand her pain."

"..." Roy Carmine let out a sigh until someone called them.

(BGM ended)

"It's them!" Jona exclaimed as Kokonoe answer the call.

"Professor Kokonoe, Jona. We're almost at the destination." Lloyd's voice said in the call.

"You better be ready to back up us!" Estelle said.

"Who do you think you're talking to girl?" Kokonoe asked. "I was already a step ahead of you."


In Orchis Tower...

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Break In)

Lloyd, Elie, KeA, Estelle, Joshua, Renne, Eula, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Noel Vermillion, Makoto Nanya, Tsubaki Yayoi, Mitsuru Kirijo, Ken Amada, Naoto Shiragane, and Goro Akechi run their way to the Geofront underground Orchis Tower as they were also accompanied by Pokemon and a new figure as well.

The Boy in question has burgundy hair tied back into a loose ponytail and sometimes undo his ponytail to a shoulder-length straight flaxen with matching burgundy eyes. He wears black tights with a plaid olive green jacket under a blue plaid shirt.

.The Party look around the area for IDF soldiers roaming and then arrived to the elevator where Joshua open a hatch to the elevator and begin to do some hacking while the others guarded. Joshua had the elevator door opened and they all went inside.

"Phew. We managed to make it this far!" Estelle sighs with relief.

"Yeah no kidding. I'm so glad that no one was around." Ruby nodded in agreement.

"Yeah. Let's hope there isn't any guard on the way." Blake said.

"Me too. I'm just glad things are going well so far." Noel Vermillion sighed.

"Yeah. But it's best not to mention any bad luck or jinx. Because if you do, it's gonna happened." Makoto Nanaya said.

"Yeah. I experience cases like that." Estelle sighed. "Still, I'm surprised how many people we gather here. I guess we owe that to Professor Kokonoe."

"Indeed. She went through a lot to gather so many of us." Joshua nodded

"Well, speaking in the Professor's perspective, I believe she wanted to get back on the Gnomes for trying to hack into her system." Mitsuru fold her arms. "She know if she can get the help from figures or group like the SSS to her benefits, she can stop whatever schemes they plan. Considering it does involve the world."

"No kidding. A lot has happened for two weeks as well..." Weiss said, looking down.

"Weiss..." Yang turn to her with a sad look.

"Oh that's right... Your homes was Atlas right...?" Elie asked, feeling bad for her.

"I can imagine the pain you're going through. It must have been rough..." Lloyd said as he place his hand on her. "But don't feel discourage Weiss. Atlas will be reborn again. Just have faith."

"Maybe... but what about the people... they were all killed by Salem." Weiss clench her teeth and fist. "Salem is a monster... for going that far to destroy Atlas... Mantle..." she look at her hand. "So many people were lost... all because of her... And I... I feel completely powerless..."

"Weiss..." Yang sighed.

"I understand that. After all... Crossbell... was so close to get their independents... only to be taken away from us." Lloyd said

"Easy for you to say. Crossbell still exist under Erebonia's rule. While Atlas and mantle was destroyed. You have no idea how I feel!" Weiss glared. "Keep your empty comfort to yourself.

"Ah..."

'Ah..." Weiss eye widen before she shook her head. "I'm sorry... I don't know what came over me."

"It's okay. I know you didn't mean it. It really took a lot from you." Lloyd said. "If Fodlan can be reborn. I'm sure Atlas will too."

"And the same could apply to Crossbell if it free from Erebonia's rule." Eula said. "However, are you certain you should come back here Lloyd? You're still wanted. And many country hunters are still looking for you."

"Yeah, but Arios, Rixia, and Noel caused enough of a distraction to take some of the heat off my back."

"Right. Still, from the Empire... no... Rather from the Governor General to place that wanted poster on your head was quite a bold and daring move." Naoto Shiragane fold her arms. "Everyone in Crossbell knows for a fact you are no criminal. Yet they see you as a threat use to your actions when you took down your president who was, I might add, went though some blind faith."

"Blint Faint indeed." Akechi fold his arm. "And yet... for some reason, everyone who once view the SSS as heroes... to villains in the blink of an eye. And this happened two weeks ago. I find it strange for Crossbellian who once adore the SSS to turn on them."

"Yeah... I was shocked about that too..." Elie let out a sigh from some event that happened to them.

"Hmm..." Tsubaki rub her chin. "Maybe something must have happened to them? Like they were brainwashed."

"It could be. I did hear that Fawful Guy brainwashed King Bowser's man during his conquest of the Mushroom Kingdom. Maybe the same thing happened to the people of Crossbell." Ken Amada guessed as Kuromaro barked in agreement.

"Most likely that case." Renne nodded. "I can't help but wonder how the Empire managed to convince many Crossbellion to turn on the SSS."

"I'm quite surprised that you guys invited me to come along too." Said the Young man who looks Eastern. He's quite handsome.

"Well, why not? I mean you did help us after all. I really owe you one for rescuing us from the IDF, Aoi." Lloyd smiled

"Well, I'm glad I can help. Still, I'm feeling a bit nervous when I'm with a group of famous people." Aoi said as he let out a nervous laugh as he scratch his cheek.

"No need for formality. All help is welcome." Mitsuru said with a smile. "Now, we all know why we're here, correct?"

"Yep. We're here to gather intel on what happened in Heimdallr." Joshua nodded

"First we couldn't get a hold of Tita, and now it seems like the whole continent is heading for war..." Estelle said as she look sad. "And then... Olivier and Toval..."

"To think they can be ruthless." Mitsuru muttered.

"How could they do such a horrible thing..." Ruby look down.

"We owed Prince Olivert a lot... He was always going out of his way to help us." Lloyd sighed

"I still can't believe it..." Elie look down. "We were able to get in touch with Randy at least. The only thing we learn from him is that something called the Great Twilight has been realized... and Class VII and all their friends tried their best to stop it... for fail in the end. And then Alisa and the others fell unconscious after how exhausted it was."

"The Great Twilight is a creepy name for sure. However, we still don't know what that means or what happened. Professor Kokonoe seems to know something, but couldn't tell us." Renne said.

"Well, maybe Professor Kokonoe wasn't sure just yet. It's kinda her thing... maybe?" Makoto Nanaya shrug.

"Either way, getting the information that you, Jona, and the Professor found during the network, right?" Blake right.

"Yes. Thanks to the trades technology and its knowledge from both the Mushroom Kingdom and Remnant... numerous projects from Liberl's ZCF, The Epstein Foundations's Crossbell branch, and Erebonia's Reinford group have been completed and the Orbal Network has finally reached its full potential, that rivals to that of the Mushroom Kingdom internet, and Remnant's and Remnent's Cross Continental Transmit System. They're all basically linked to this point." Renne said. "Two weeks ago, a significant volume of data was uploaded from Heimdallr. It's probably heavily encrypted, but I'm sure it holds some clues as to what happened and Professor Kokonoe traced the data transfer, and it was sent to the core terminal of this tower."

"The Thaumaturgical Sector..." Joshua turn his head to the elevator door. "It was created as part of the ritual for the Azure-Zero Project, right?"

Lloyd nodded. "Right. After the annexation, though, the governor-general had it sealed off.

"Probably because the only ones who can operate it are the alchemists of the Crois Family." Elie said. "But somehow, it seems like someone's using it now."

"Well, we can figure that out later. Right now, we gotta focus on what we came here for." Estelle said.

Ruby nodded. "Right. We need to find out what happened to Heimdallr that day and what they're planning now."

"Whatever that might be... it must have something to do with what's going on behind the scenes in Erebonia." Aoi said. "

"Right." Lloyd nodded in agreement. "But we can't even start putting together a plan to help until we have a clear picture of what that is."

"All right. Then we need to rely on each other to get that data." Naoto Shirogane said.

"Heehee. Maybe I'll finally get to have some real fun here too." Renne smirked. "Wouldn't you agree, Gothorita?"

"Gothorita." Renne's Gothorita nodded.

"Hehehe! Right, with our Pokemon helping us, things would be a breeze, right Jigglypuff?" KeA smiled as she hug her evolved pokemon.

"Jigglypuff!" KeA's Jigglypuff replied with a hug back as they soon arrived on the 20th floor.

They begin to walk through the door that took them to the Thaumaturgical Sector. Where several large machinery was build here.

"Whoa..." Noel Vermillion said in awe.

"So this is the result of the Crois family's obsession..." Joshua said.

"At a glance, it doesn't seem like it's in full operation." Renne said.

Lloyd nodded. "Yeah. When I infiltrated this place two years ago, it was glowing with an eerie energy."

"That's right. Back then, it was draining mana from all of Crossbell." Elie added

"Hmm... It might not be at full power, but it's definitely been turned on." KeA told them. "Something's coming. Be careful, everyone." She said and Golems and Heartless appeared next.

"Heartless and the Alchemist's little toys." Renne grinned as everyone got out their weapons and took a stance while KeA Jigglypuff got in front of KeA and Renne's Gothorita took her stance.

"Ready your ARCUS Alpha for battle! Let's link up and destroy the targets!" Eula said

"Don't forget we can also try out the Brave orders too." Aoi added.

"Okay Jigglepuff, let's do this!" KeA said.

"Jiggly!" KeA's Jigglypuff nodded as they formed combat links and then begin to take on the golems and the Heartless

Lloyd, Estelle, Joshua, Aoi, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Makoto, Tsubaki, Mitsuru, Ken, and Goro charge toward the monters and Heartless, as they each launch their attacks with bash, slash, hack while KeA had Jigglypuff used Rollout and knock the Golem and Heartless into the air as Elie, Naoto, Blake, Ruby and Noel Vermillion, shoot them and defeated them. Renne gracefully slices the Golem's body as Gothorita use Psybeam on the Heartless as the others soon clear them out.

"Phew! Those things were pretty strong for being a bunch of walking rocks and some darkness taking form." Estelle smirked.

"But they were no match for us either way. But we can expect stronger foes on the way." Eula said.

"And here I thought Estelle and Joshua are something. Eula's swordmanship, Mitsuru's skill with the Rapier, Aoi's skill with his blade, Ruby, Weiss, Blake, Yang, Noel, Makoto, Tsubaki, Ken, Naoto and Goro's skills are something else."

"Indeed. Remnant's weapons are quite fascinating." Elie nodded while noticing Ruby's drool. "Um... Ruby?"

"Oh, hehe." Ruby scratch her head. "Sorry, Just looking at your weapons just got me all... fangirling."

"Oh right. I remember that you gawk at our weapons like a dog." Renne said.

"Hehehe."

"Well, weapons, skills and Semblence aside, you guys are incredible. I can see Estelle, Joshua, Noel, Makoto and Tsubaki are in line for an A-Rank Promotion." Elie said.

"Aw, thanks. Schera and Agate can still run circles around us, though." Estelle chuckled.

"And compared to the Divine Blade of Wind, we're practically amateurs." Joshua said.

"Yeah. Thanks for the compliment you guys. But compare to Aether's skills... we're just amateurs." Noel Vermillion

"Oh stop being so modest, Noellers." Makoto Nanaya chuckled. "But you're right about our Golden Wanderer."

"Oh yeah. He's an S- Rank Bracer from the Mushroom Kingdom branch right? I'm surprised someone of his age can outsight the Purple Lightning record as the youngest who became A rank... to an S- Rank.' Estelle said.

"It's surprising now that you think about it. Although we haven't met him. Rumors about his skills on the other hand are unparalleled." Renne said.

"Haha! Your skills with a scythe is so cool too Renne!" Ruby said

"Mine is graceful compared to you Ruby. But I could never compare to your Semblence, however. But you're making me blush all the same. To be honest, though. I feel like I've gotten pretty rusty since my days as an Enforcer."

"Oh that's right. You used to work for Ouroboros." Naoto Shirogane mused. "The same applies to you, Joshua."

Joshua nodded "Yeah. Back then, I was known as Enforcer No. XIII, the Black Fang."

"I was Enforcer No. XV, the Angel of Slaughter. It's embarrassing to think I actually used to go by that title, though. Though I do feel bad about feeling a friend of mine back then."

"Haha..." Lloyd chuckled. "What about you, Aoi?"

"Me? Well I wasn't part of the society. But I guess you can say my skills and my sword come from a... unique background." Aoi scratch his cheek. "Still. I'm glad I can help. That's what I want to do... to find a place to call home and maybe used my skills for good..."

"Aoi..."

"A-Anyway, I shouldn't bring down the mood. Let's keep going everyone." Aoi said.

"According to the data Jona and Professor Kokonoe manged to grab, the central terminal is on the top of this area. That's where we'll find the intel we're looking for." Lloyd said.

Estelle nodded. "Got it! It's been two years since the SSS and Bracer Guild collaborated on a mission, but we're back in actions!"

"Don't forget we made some new friends along the way." Joshua said.

"Well at least you include us." Ken smiled as Kuromaru bark happily.

"I'm not sure if I'm worthy of being your friend." Akechi fold his arms.

"Aww, don't be like that Akechi. We're all friends here." KeA smiled, causing Akechi to sigh.

"We got quite a climb ahead of us. We better keep moving." Tsubaki said.

"Right. Let's bring out our Pokemon companions too. I have a feeling they want to join in on the fun.' Lloyd said as he, Elie, Estelle and Joshua toss their Pokemon and came out was Lloyd's Growlithe, Elie's Petilil, Estelle Miencoo, and Joshua's Houndour.

The party then begin to move forward as they walk to their left and then go up the platform.

"Wow, this place is pretty tall. So how high is this place?" Ruby asked

"Hmm... If I had to guess, maybe a hundred large?" KeA wondered

"Arge? Oh right. That's Zemurian terms for Height." Blake said.

"Oh right. Our terms is unfamiliar just as yours with ours. I better remember that as I learn." Lloyd said.

"Right. To answer that question earlier from what I've seen of the Crois family's schematics, that's exactly correct." Elie said.

"It's rather impressive and ambitious to build a tall building like this." Aoi said as they come across a door which leads to the Outer Wall.

As they arrived, they encounter more monsters and Heartless to prevent them from getting closer, but they begin to take them head on. Soon they begin to dealt with them.

"Okay, that took care of them." Naoto Shirogane said.

"Right. Estelle, Joshua, Renne, Eula, How the situation in Liberl?" Lloyd asked.

"I hear the Imperial government is exerting more pressure." Elie added

"It's the worst it's ever been." Estelle sighed. "They attributed Oliver's death and the attempt on the emperor's life to the Republic of Calvard. They're haranguing the queen to terminate diplomatic relations with Calvard every day."

"I see..." Mitsuru sighed. "I can take it that means they demand Liberl to allow passage for their troops to march to Calvard?"

"Indeed. It infuriates me that Erebonia has become to arrogant of late." Eula sighed. "The troops would enter through Haken Gatge, move south to Wolf Frot, and invade southwestern Calvard from there."

"And the other routes includes the Nord Highlands and Remiferia." Renne added.

"Damn, things aren't looking too good." Makoto muttered. "I heard from the guild that many tourists from the Mushroom Kingdom, Remnant, Fiore and many other counties outside Zemuria couldn't return back home."

"What?" Lloyd asked in shock.

"Indeed. Their movements have been curtailed. But that isn't the worst news. I heard that they even demand the other nations to not interfere with the war, should they not risk their own citizens getting caught in the crossfire." Tsubaki muttered.

"That's horrible!" Elie said.

"My opinion with Erebonia has sink low due to how aggressive they become. I can understand they don't want any nations to get themselves in their affairs in war, but that's no excuse to act all high and mighty." Weiss complained.

"I been to Erebonia before. The people there were nice. However, ever since that day happen two weeks ago. They chance completely." Akechi fold his arms. "Did some of you heard from the professor and that brat about what happened in Heimdallr recently? About Operation Jormungandr?"

"Jormungandr?" Ruby tilt her head.

"Jormungandr." Tsubaki rub her chin. "I know about that name. Back in the ancient past in mythology. It's the name of an ancient powerful serpent who dwells in the sea of the world and is capable of devouring the entire world. In other worlds, its known as the World Serpent."

"That's right." Lloyd nodded. "They're making Crossbell the main front of the war, but this 'serpent' has more than one head. They'll invade Calvard via every route they can get."

"We bracers do what we can to make it stop... but the problem is, we can't go toe to toe with the whole country." Noel Vermillion sighed.

"What we can do is at least to try to minimize the impact." Estelle said.

"Hmm... I'm afraid I have news about that." Tsubaki folds her arms. "I got contacted by Aether that Erebonia contacted the Bracer Guild HQ. If the Bracers were to interfere in any... and I mean any means with the war, it would be a declaration of war and a sign that they will aid Calvard. That would make Leman their next target and destroy the Bracer Guild."

"W-What!?" Estelle eye widen in horror with the others. "They plan to destroy the Bracer Guild?!"

"Yes. It's completely wicked of them. Which is why I'm against the idea of doing nothing."

"Me too. They can threaten us Bracer all they want, but they cannot break our moral code." Makoto Nanaya said with confidence.

"That's the Spirit, you girls." Estelle smirked.

"Our dad and Kloe are also looking into ways to counter Operation Jormunganr. I imagine the other nations are too." Joshua said. "In the meantime, we're acting independently, responding as the situation develops."

"I'm also looking for ways to counter Operation Jormunganr. But that one isn't the only thing I'm worried about. I'm worried about the society's movement." Eula said. "Last I heard, they were in odds with the Imperial government, but they've gone quiet."

"Well, all that stuff's why I decided to come along." Renne said. "I've got a promise to keep with Tita, after all. And that aside... I was worried about letting Estelle run loose on her own."

"Yes, I can agree with you there." Eula turn to Estella with a blunt look. "Knowing her, she always know how to get into trouble."

"Oh, ha ha. Very funny you too." Estelle gave them a 'really' look. "We would have been fine... But you probably just wanted a break from school, Renne. As for you Eula, shouldn't you worried about your possession as Captain of the Reconnaissance company?"

"Which is also why I have ideas to get you out of there and gather any information to the joint. Besides, you need us."

"Well I can't deny Renne dig up some pretty useful intel... and Eula's strength, skill are in handy. If Crosbell's getting involved, it's for the best you're with us."

"You might have been given the okay by the guild to join this mission as a collaborator... but try not to cause too much mischief while we're here, Renne. Okay?" Joshua asked.

"Heh." Renne flip her hair." Yeah yeah."

"Heh. I can see why the professor scouted you for assistance." Naoto Shirogane chuckled.

"Well, in any case, we should get moving. We can't stay here for long." Ken told them as they begin to move toward the door that arrive the perimeter. "We arrived at the perimeter."

"Right. Each of these sectors are connects back to the central room." Lloyd nodded

Renne presses her earpiece and projects a map of the area. "Lucky for us, our dear kitty professor and that hacker friend of ours provided an interactive map for us. Making this much easier to get through. And personally... I love this terminal from our other professor and his subordinate has created." Renne chuckled. "I found a shortcut here. Let's used it."

"I'm surprised about Professor. E. Gadd, and Kirito for creating this state-of-the-art terminal that can be used as an earpiece." Elie mused.

"I guess this counts as one of the best things from the Mushroom Kingdom." Lloyd chuckled as they found a latter.

Renne sweatdrop. "Not the classiest way to get around, but it'll do."

Lloyd chuckled. "Maybe we'll find something ritizer than an emergency-access ladder next time."

"Why not just your Gothorita Psychic to levitate yourself since you're lazy about it, Renne?" Eula rolled her eyes.

"Ooh, good idea." Renne grinned.

"I was joking."

"Eh. Sometimes you provide me with some interesting ideas."

"Oh Aidios..." Eula sighed as the party sweatdrop as some climb the ladder as Gothorita use Psychic to take her, and KeA on the ledge as Gothorita use Psychic to pull the rest.

They made their way back to the Core level where they go up the platform and then encounter more Monsters and Heartless which they begin to take them down shortly after.

"That reminds me. Has the conscription already started in Crossbell?" Estelle asked.

"Yes, no sooner had they officially announced the campaign than draft cards started going out." Elie sighed. "The Governor general's office already has a list of conscripts ready based on the latest census."

"The one they took for the Eight Metropolis Plan, right?" Joshua asked.

"If I recall, it provided the government with information on materials assets as well as population dafa and number of men eligible to be drafted." Mitsuru said.

"Man, when has the Empire stated something some calculated statement?" Yang asked.

"I don't know, but it really does benefits something, doesn't it?" Weiss asked.

"Yes. Such as Rufus Albarea." Lloyd fold his arm. "And the Blood and Iron Chancellor, Giliath Osborne."

"They've appropriated Ouroboro' Phantasmal Blaze Plan for their own purposes. It seemed like Rufus and Osborne were in opposite factions in the Imperial government, but I guess they're working together now." Renne said.

"Yeah. Rufus was actually one of Osborne's handpicked aides. The primary one, in fact. They're called the 'Ironbloods.'" Estelle said.

"I think I remember something about that. Millium is a member of the Ironblood. Same with another one from the Intelligence Division and Railway Military Police... right?" Ruby asked.

"Right. One of them is friends with my sister." Weiss nodded.

"And Her Highness knows one of them as well." Eula fold her arms. "That red-haired lazy wannabe."

"He's practically a living legend there." Renne chuckled. "He's one of the school's most accomplished Student Council presidents despite having its most abysmal attendance record."

Kea giggled. "I remember him!"

"Major Lechter Arundel... also known as the Scarecrow." Elie said. "I saw him talking with Crown Princess Klaudia at the trade conference..."

"He and the other Ironbloods really had our numbers during Operation Birdcage. I'm curious to know the part they played in what happened in Heimdallr."

"Sounds like a plan to dig up that information. I can give us more insight to that Blood and Iron Chancellor's plan." Ken nodded.

"We owe it to Olivier to get to the bottom of this!" Estelle nodded as they move their way upward until they reach the Elevator. "Oh! Is this an elevator?"

"Mhm! It can take us all the way up." KeA answered as they used it to make their way to the Upper Level where they encountered Heartless and Monsters blocking their path and they begin to take them on until they're all gone.

"That reminds me, you guys know Rean Schwarzer, right?" Estelle asked.

"Oh yeah, we know him. He's one of our friends." Ruby nodded.

"I'm not acquainted with him, but I have heard many tales about him from my friends and acquaintances. He's a noble soul. I was wondering when I can get the chance to meet him." Mitisuru said. "Why do you ask. Is this about gathering more information about him."

"Well, yeah. But we know we can count on him from what we learn from the other people." Estelle said.

"Right. We can trust him and Class VII. But let's focus back on our priority." Lloyd said.

"Right. As well as finding Tita and Agate." Joshua nodded as they continued going up the platform. "We should count ourselves lucky that this place isn't fully up and running now."

"That's right. It would have taken us at least twice as long if it was." Elie nodded

"Wow. Sounds like you guys had a rough time." Ruby said as they made it to the Central Terminal.

"Whoa..." Ken said in awe.

"I believe we found our terminal." Blake said. "And the data that ended up."

"It must have been installed recently. It wasn't here two years ago." Lloyd said as they approached it.

"Are you ready, Renne?" Elie asked

"But of course." Renne winked as she pulled out her personal and upgraded laptop and then connected it to the terminal. "All set up. I'll need your help for this next part, KeA."

"You got it! What should I do?" KeA asked

"According to Four Eye and Kokonoe, this terminal uses a system made with the same Astral Code that Ouroboros uses.. It's a five-dimensional Spiri Code. A lifetime wouldn't be enough to try all the combinations. But with your help, we should be able to skip ahead 81 steps or so."

"Oh! I get it now. You want me to matricize the exterior of space-time, right?"

"Exactly. Let's get started."

Estelle sweatdrop. "Are these kids even speaking our language? The heck is a five-dimensional code?!"

"Astral Code. It's the system Ouroboros uses for its communications." Joshua answered

"Professor Kokonoe and I been doing our own research on this five-dimensional code. To speak plainly, it's an advanced coding method that works ten times the original progress. As well as difficult and heavenly encrypted that are unique to, unlike any coding system that was recorded in Zemuria. When I say, Zemuria I mean before the Mushroom Kingdom and the other nations appear. The Mushroom Kingdom and Remnant coding were a superior version... that rivals the Astral Code. But according to the professor, it's been upgraded thanks to the new knowledge from Atlas and the Mushroom Kingdom."

"Seriously? How does Ouroboros able to make such a thing?" Estelle groaned.

"There, there is someone among the Anguis who made it." Joshua said.

"I see. It looks like the Crois family applied it to their ritual." Lloyd wondered. "But I don't understand why they sent it here of all places."

"It's simple really. It's because I requested it of the governor-general and a certain source." A voice said as the group turn around and spotted Albeirch approach them along with Claire, and Relius.

(BGM ended)

"Uh-Oh..." Ruby sweatdrop.

'I couldn't sense them coming...' Joshua and Blake thought.

"She's from the RMP." Elie felt a sweat on her cheek.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Constraint)

"I'm Claire Rievelt, Railway Military Police." Claire introduced herself. "I recognize the two of you, Lloyd Bannings and Elie MacDowell. I also recognized Team RWBY, Ruby Rose, Weiss Schnee, Blake Belladonna, and Yang Xaio Long. Along with Noel Vermillion, Makoto Nanaya and Tsubaki Yayoi from the Mushroom Kingdom Bracer's Guild." Then turn to the Brights. "You must be Estelle Bright, meaning the one next to you is Joshua Bright, correct?" Then turn to Eula. "And you must be Captain Eula Lawrence, of Liberl's Reconnaissance Company.

"Who? Nah, you must have mixed us with some other people." Estelle casually lied as she wrap her arm behind her back.

"If it's all the same, I think we'll avoid confirming our identities for now." Joshua said

"Oh I'm afraid it won't do you any good. Lying will only make it worse for you Bracers." A voice said as Cornelia appeared next to Alberich.

Elie gasped as she covered her mouth.

"You're..!" Lloyd clench his teeth as he glared at her.

Cornelia laughed. "Well, well well. Look what we have here. If it ain't the two members of the SSS, Fugitive Lloyd Banning, Elie MacDowell, and the little Zero Child herself. KeA. As well as Estelle Bright, Joshua Bright, and Renne Bright." Cornelia turn to Claire. "Major, I can confirm that they are indeed the Bright Family and members of Liberl's bracer guild."

"Understood. I'll notify the government." Claire nodded. "I was told if any Bracers were to interfere or trespass into any imperial property without permission, let alone aiding a criminal, it is shown as a sign that the Bracer Guild has ignored Imperial warning and a sign of war."

"Ngh...!" Estelle clenched her teeth. "We screw up..."

"You're Cornelia from Organization XIII... I thought the entire organization has been dealt with and you were all kill in the progress. How are you here alive?!" Lloyd yelled.

"Oh. I fake my own death. I still have a role to play." Cornelia smirked. "It wasn't difficult to mask myself in darkness and teleport myself to safety. After the Organization was defeated completely. I return here to heal my injuries. With that said. Did I surprise you? It's a talent of mine apparently." she turn to the SSS. "And since the SSS are here, once again making trouble and snooping where they should keep their nose out of it. I'm afraid you cost Speaker Macdowell's life."

"No..." Elie shivered. "NO!" She pull out her Orbal Pistol and pointed at Cornelia. "Don't you dare kill my Grandfather!"

"Oh I'm afraid that's no longer possible since you and the rest of the SSS ignore my warning. Pull that trigger. I dare you."

"..!" Elie shakened.

"Elie!" Lloyd begin to comfort her by holding her hands.

"Aww, how cute." Cornelia grinned. "Her boyfriend is trying to comfort her."

Albeirch laughed. "It truly is amusing. Even if she shot at you, it would be pointless. It cannot be helped regardless. Speaker Macdowell life has already meet his fate the moment you trasspass here."

"..!" Elie eye widened as she shook.

"But I'm actually quite impressed you were able to pinpoint this terminal's location. I suppose the Faceless Taught you well." Alberich smirk.

Estelle asked before she glared. "What did you say!?"

"Wait, I recognize you…" Joshua growled

"A key figure in Ouroboro's Thirteen Factories project, you led a team of Gnomes of Erebonia. But then you betrayed the society to join forces with the Blood and Iron Chancellor, didn't you? Chief of the Black Workshop?" Renne asked

Alberich smirked as he, Relius, Cornelia and Claire approached. "Haha… precisely. I worked closely with the formal Third Anguis of Ouroboros: the Faceless. I even had him test my automated miniature combat shells. He proved very useful in the Hamel project, as well. Hard to believe that was 14 years ago."

"What? Then does that mean you helped that despicable man start the Hundred-Day War?!" Eula asked with a glare

"Seems like there's a lot of buried secrets. I'm guessing the data here is the key to dragging the rest of the skeletons out of your closet." Renne replied.

"Yes, actually. If you can break the code, then by all means, do whatever you wish on the data." Alberich said "Ah, however, before you can do that, you'll need to face the six of us."

"The six of you?" Ruby asked.

"Ohhohoho! Why, hello there, everyone! Long time no see." A woman's voice laughed

"Especially to you as well Estelle, Joshua, Renne." A boy's voice replied as the Party turned and see Mariabell and Noel on the opposite side.

"You got to be kidding…" Renne muttered

"Wh-Why… What are YOU doing here Bell?!" Elie exclaimed.

"Oh don't be like that. It's been a while since we've seen each other. Two years or so? And it looks like you're up to your neck in trouble, just like we knew you'd be." Mariabell smirked.

"As for you SSS, It's been quite some time since we have seen each other in those two years." Noel said with a hand on his hip before turning to the Bright Family. "As for you Bright family, I believe that was four years or so since the Liber Ark? I heard how you became a fugitive in your own homeland Lloyd. Sucks to be you, doesn't it?" Noel asked with a smirk on his face.

"Tch…" Lloyd muttered.

"As for you, Estelle. I see you're a tomboy as ever. I suppose it's your charm. And you Joshua. You grown as well it seems." Noel then turns to Renne. "And hey, long time no see Renne! It's been four years since you went missing. I was shocked when you left the society and became a member of the Bright family. Are they treating you well? You have grown a lot more beautiful back then."

Renne giggled. "Oh, they have been treating me just fine, thanks for asking. And I see you have grown a handsome charmer since we last met. And still, the same hairstyle you used back then. Puberty hits us well, doesn't it?"

"Haha! It sure has."

"Are these two flirting with each other?" Estelle asked

"Well considering they are old friends and have a lot in common, I say so." Joshua answered

"Though I can't say to your other friends though. Are you new friends to them?" Noel asked

"We are, yes." Aoi answered

"In any case, Mariabell, you've finally come back to Crossbell…" Lloyd muttered. "But what are you doing with these four? Shouldn't you be fighting the Imperial government?!"

"Oh? Did you not get the memo?" Mariabell asked "Ouroboros is now allied with Mister Blood and Iron. Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say Ouroboros surrendered to him."

"Ouroboros surrender to him?" Naoto Shirogane asked. "Then... that must mean what happened in Heimdallr..."

"Yes. It was the declaration of the alliance between Chancellor Osborne and Ouroboros. The Beginning of the Great Twilight." Relius told them as he, Alberich, Cornelia and Claire approached them.

"Oh, now I get it." KeA respond. "So that's what that weird black wave was."

"Oh-ho!" Mariabell replied as she and Noel got closer to the group. "You could see it, even though you lost your power as a Sept-Terrion? My family's little pet project continues to impress."

"KeA is not just some project!" Elie argued.

"Oh, I beg a differ." Relius said. "That little girl is nothing more of a homunculus. A creature born from alchemy. They are created to serve their purpose. Calling her a project is fitting."

"You better shut your damn mouth!" Lloyd glared. "I didn't expect we think we would see each other again, Relius Clover."

"Relius Clover? Have I heard that name before?" Weiss wondered.

"Relius Clover... the Mad Puppeteer from Ragna's World. Infamous for his twisted mind and abominable experiments on humanity." Mitsuru glared.

"Oh, it's just one evil villain after another..." Blake muttered.

"Hehe. Calling me a villain is rather childish is it not?" Relius asked with an amusing smirk. "Either way, defending that creature is beneath you. But perhaps she can be used for an experiment I had in mind."

"You stay away from her you son of a bitch!" Lloyd brought out his Batons. "Don't you dare call her a creature! She's a human being!"

"A Human being? How naive."

"You...!"

"It's okay Lloyd." KeA smiled. "It's true I started out as a project. But that aside, there are some things I'm grateful to Bell for. It's thanks to her that I was able to meet you, Lloyd, and everyone else. Even my Igglybuff who evolve into Jigglypuff."

"Jigglypuff!" KeA's Jigglypuff smiled.

"Aww, KeA." Lloyd smiled at her.

"I'm glad we met too, KeA." Elie smiled at her too.

"Aww, she's so adorable I just want to give her a hug!" Ruby cooed.

Noel let out a warm smile and chuckled "Look at you, being positive and mature. You have changed a lot since we last met. I'm proud of you." Noel smiled.

"You really have grown up. And in such a short time…" Mairabell replied "In any event, I'm surprised the Bright family here, too. I'm particularly pleased to meet you, No. XV, the Angel of Slaughter."

"The pleasure's all mine." Renne got up. "I've been wanting to meet the one who took that twisted professor's spot. I can tell from a glance… you're somehow even more rotten than he was."

"Oh, dear me. Coming from you, I'll take that as a compliment."

"Of course, you would. Considering how lovely and yet twisted as a sadist you are, Mariabell." Noel replied as he shrug.

"Hohoho, you flatter me, Noel. And shouldn't I say the same to you? After all, you love toying with your foes, watching and making them scream and drown in pain and suffering with that sadist smile as you dance with delight."

"Ahahaha, I can't deny that~."

"Renne, forget about them." Ken said as he and the others took out their weapons and the Pokemon are ready to fight. "You and KeA need to focus on getting that data."

"And if they're here to stop us, we won't hesitate to fight back!" Lloyd added

"Renne, KeA! Don't worry! We'll take care of them!" Elie nodded

"Heh, heh. Oh, is that so? We'll just see about that, now won't we?" Alberich smirked and then summoned his personal combat shell.

"What the-" Estelle responded in surprised

"A combat Shell! Though it's different from the kind the professor used." Joshua explained

"That Black Rabbit girl had one of those things, too!" Lloyd added

"One might refer to this one as the origin of the other models you've seen." Alberich said as his combat shell changed into a combat mode where it had a silver-covered body, a glowing purple glow eye, three long tendril appendages on each side. "It's been quite some time since I tested Zoa Balor in battle. I'm curious to see how it performs against the Divine Blade's daughter, two formal Enforcers, Three members of the Bracers Guild, the wannabe hauntresses of Remnant, the captain of Liberl's Reconnaissance Company, their other allies, and the SSS."

"Ah yes. I would like to collect some combat data from them as well. Ignis." Relius said as he snapped his finger and Ignis appeared.

"Wha-?!" Ruby eye widen.

"Is that a puppet?" Weiss asked.

"Correct. This is Ignis. A combat doll if you would. Unlike the Combat Shells Alberich and the Black Rabit possess, Ignis is more adept to combat." Relius answered.

"My my, now that's impressive!" Mariabell said as she summoned her red staff as three puppets appeared between her.

"Rosenberg dolls!" Elie exclaimed

"You made the old man's doll into your minions?!" Renne growled

"Oh, I just couldn't help myself, being an alchemist and all. We may both play with dolls, but my tea party are a little more deadly than yours." Mariabell answered

"Considering we're speaking about deadly. I suppose I'm the second most dangerous guest at this tea party." Noel replied as he swiped his finger, opened a water portal, pulled out Aetherius from it, and took his stance.

"The Undine Prince of Ouroboros…" Lloyd muttered. "I remember what a difficult time we fought against him."

"Yeah, he was trained by Loewe more than I have back then. And he's gotten a lot stronger back then it seems." Joshua added

"Not to mention his ability to manipulate water… And creating those water minions of his…" Estelle muttered

"Yeah, we had a problem with him too." Ruby nodded.

"Yeah. He is one of Ouroboros strongest Enforcers." Yang muttered

"Wait." Renne said as she examined Noel. "Noel, those swords of yours. Those aren't the sword you normally use, isn't it?"

"Huh?" Lloyd look confused.

"Not only that… Those swords of his hold otherworldly power!" KeA stated

"The Zero Child I'm not surprised. But I'm surprised you remember Renne. I'm so happy." Noel smiled. "You're right. These swords aren't the ones I use that mother gave me. These swords are called Aetherius. They were given to me by the Grandmaster for all my outstanding work. They're capable of amplifying my water ability and are capable of pausing time each strike."

"What?!" Lloyd look shocked.

"So that's what those weapons are?!" Ruby gasped.

"Are you sure you're not the deadliest foe here in this tea party, Noel?" Renne muttered

"Oh you'll be surprised." Cornelia said as she was surrounded by dark magic. "Perhaps if I defeat you, maybe I'll might capture you and take you to your grandfather... before I kill you and him."

"You...!" Elie clenched her teeth.

"Please, the five of you. That's enough playing around. We're wasting time." Claire said as she got her Orbal Gun out and then activated the symbol on her eye as she glow with power.

(BGM ended)

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Endure Grief)

"What the-" Aoi eye widen.

"That Emblem..." Joshua trailed off.

"I am the Icy Maiden, Claire Reveldt. On my authority as a member of the Ironblood. You're all under arrest for illegally accessing a restricted area." Claire declared.

"Here they come!" Estelle shout out.

"Some of us should keep Renne and KeA safe!" Blake stated.

"Be careful everyone!" KeA added

"Activate combat links! We will overcome this, no matter what!" Lloyd respond.

The Great Twilight Operators

The RMP Major Officer - Claire Rieveldt

The Chief of the Gnomes - Black Alberich

The Wicked Woman of the Agarthan - Cornelia

The Mad Puppeteer - Relius Clover

The traitor of Crossbell - Mariabell Crois

The Sword Prodigy- Noel Ryker.

Lloyd forms a combat link with Elie and Aoi, Estelle link up with Joshua and Eula, Ruby forms a four-way link with Weiss, Yang, and Blake while Mitsuru forms a link with Naoto, Ken, and Akechi. Noel Vermillion, Makoto Nanya, Tsubaki, and Ken will guard Renne, KeA, and Jigglepuff. Oh and Growlithe Pokemon link with Lloyd, Petilil Pokemon link with Elie. Miencoo Pokemon link with Estelle and Houndour Pokemon link with Joshua.

"Joshua's mine." Noel forwards his arm to extend into a watery grabbed, pull Joshua toward him, and then slashes him.

"Joshua!" Estelle yelled as she and Eula ran to help him as Mariabell summoned spikes and launched them toward Ruby, Blake, Weiss, and Yang, but Weiss Weiss used her Glypse to block the attack as Blake and Yang ran toward Mairabell as her dolls readied to defend her and slash with her.

Lloyd and Aoi dash toward Cornelia who waves her arm and unleashes a dark wave of magic as Lloyd is blown away but Aoi leap over it and then dives to attack Cornelia, but Albeirch's combat Shell gets in the way and knocks him back. Ignis readied her claws and dashed toward Mitsuru, Naoto, Ken, and Akechi as Naoto shot bullets toward it as Ignis deflected it as Mitsuru launched lighting trust attacks as Ken swirled his lance and dashed to push Ignis back while Relius summoned puppet arms and launched them at lighting speed. Claire begins shooting at Akechi who deflects the orbal shots.

"Mamudoon!" Akicchi yelled as his Persona appeared and launched Mamudoon onto the ground as they were struck.

"Ah, so we're dealing with Persona Users." Alberich mused as his combat shell readied its next attack. "Adding Persona Users data will be a bonus!"

"As if!" Ken yelled as he ran toward Albeirch and launched a slash with his lance, but Zoa Balor blocked it and then launched a tentacle spikes attack at him as Ken dodged as Koromaru used a knife to scratch the combat shell.

"A dog can fight?" Claire looked surprised as it summoned Cerbusus to use Agidyne on Claire who dodged the attack. "And tits a Persona User?!"

"Now this is interesting!' Mairabell said.

"Indeed." Relius and Alberich said.

Eula swung her greatsword as she clashed with Noel but he blocked the attack gracefully before sliding past her and then locking her, but her sword blocked it as Noel backflipped and launched slash projections before Estelle ran toward Noel to hit him with her Bo Staff. Noel backflips as Joshua dashes toward him and they unleash a flurry of slashes at each other.

"So you haven't gotten rusty, Joshua. Loewe's teaching still leaves an impact on you." Noel said.

"I could say the same to you, Noel." Joshua replied.

"But which one of us is the better disciple?!" Noel then pushed Joshua back as Ruby used Petal Burst to strike as Noel but he backflipped easily before unleashing several slashes toward her as she dodged and then began to shoot at him as Noel deflected it until Yang dashed toward him and punched him, but Noel managed to dodge it and kick Yang toward Estelle, but Yang recovered and she and Estelle dash toward him.

Weiss summoned her Gylphs and shot projections toward Mariabell as her dolls deflected them until Blake knocked them back and Aoi lung toward Marabell and launched combo swift slashes on her and then spin jump slash, used Steel Wires to grab her and then toss her over him and slam her to the ground as Weiss used her Glypse under Blake and launch her. Mariabell got back up until Blake kicked her gut.

"Duh!" Mariabell was knocked back before she recovered and then summoned several red thorne toward Blake, Weiss and Aoi but they dodged.

Claire blocked the slash attack from Akechi with her arms before she moved swiftly and shot at him, ran up to him and launched a palm strike, and kicked on him. Claire then used her craft: Frigid Rain on him and Ken and struck them as Alberich had Zoa Balor launch powerful claw attacks on them with Cornelia casting Hades onto them. Lloyd ran toward Albicher as Zoa Balor shot a laser at him, but Elie fired at the eye to stun it as LLoyd jumped toward it's face and slammed him, knocking it back as Alberich had it swipe at Lloyd and scratching him.

"Ngh!" Lloyd growled from the attack.

Relius's puppet's hands block Mitsuru's attack as Ignis launches drills at her, but she jumps back.

"Artemisia!" Mitisutu summoned her Persona to launch several whip attacks on Ignis as Naoto ran up and kicked the chest and then fired several bullets at her.

Ignis recovered and readied her claws as Relius summoned several gears and launched them at lightning speed as Naoto dodged and kicked the gears as her Persona appeared and swiped them away.

Cornelia dast Misama toward Ken and Akechi as they dodged the attack as she then channeled her dark magic and then unleashed several spikes onto the floor and struck Weiss, Elie, Mitsuru, Eula, Joshua, Estelle, Yang, and Ruby as Noel used his Craft: Lorelei Scale as he dash through Weiss, Elie, Mitsuru, Eula, Joshua, Estelle, Yang and Ruby, leaving his after image and then swing his arm and his afterimage unleash powerful jump spin slash. Each time Noel attacked, they were slowed down as Mariabell's and her doll launched the attack by launching several slashes at them as Mariabell summoned magic circles and shot thorns on to them and struck them.

Lloyd ran toward Noel and both of them swung at each other as Elie then shoot at him, Noel backflipped, then warp around Lloyd, leaving afterimages and each one charged toward him as Lloyd use Zero Breaker to destroy the images, but the real Noel reappeared above and struck through him.

"Guh!" Lloyd grunted as His Growlithe used Flamewheel on Noel to knock him back. Petilil used Energy Ball on Cornelia and struck her as Estelle used her Craft: Barrage and knock her back.

Cornelia then shot dark magic sphere and blasted Estelle back. Alberich's combat shell launch several spike attacks onto Joshua as he dodged and slash the tentacles before zooming toward Alberich and slashing him as Eula imbued her Greatsword with Ice and launched a powerful slash that knocked Alberich back and roll n the ground as he recovered... only for Houndroor to used Flamethrower on him.

"Nnguh!" Albeirched grounded as Zoa Balor attempted to attack the dog Pokemon, but Mienfoo used Force Palm on it and as Yang launched a powerful punch to knock it to the ground for Ruby to launch a powerful scythe combo.

Claire shot several orbal shots toward Weiss and Blake but they deflected it.

"Claire, I can't believe you're part of this." Weiss said, summoning her Glyph and shoto projections toward her.

"Forgive me, Weiss. But as an officer and an Ironblood, I follow orders." Claire dodged and then fire back.

Eula lung toward Claire as she swung her Greatsword gracefully as Claire dodged, but Eula then slam her sword to the ground which stun Claire punched her gut, backflipped, grabbed her sword and launch a powerful swing to knock her back. Aoi created clones of himself and dash toward Noel, Mairabell, and Relius and warm around them to slash them, and then he reappeared and struck through them. Noel unleashes a slash projection at Aoi but he backflip and throw a Shuriken at him as Noel deflects it.

Koromaru and Akichi prepared to attack Relius

"Okay! The last matrix is finished!" KeA yelled, causing everyone to stop fighting and turn their attention toward them.

(BGM ended)

(Resuming Constraint)

"Nice! I disable the Data protection!" Renne nodded and click

"Access granted. Beginning download of classified data."

Mairabell blink. "Oh my…"

"That was fast…" Noel blinked as well.

Alberich couldn't help but laugh. "I am certainly impressed."

"After all we have been through, that better not be just a bunch of junk data." Estelle replied

"I doubt it I don't think they had the time to set us up under these circumstances." Elie said.

"Judging by the way they're acting, it's like they don't really care if we get this info." Joshua said.

"But why? Why go to such lengths to cover things up and then let us learn the truth?" Lloyd wondered "The truth about what happened in Heimdallr. Both on the surface and behind the scenes."

"And you call yourselves a detective Lloyd Banning." Cornelia said in a mocking tone. "The answer is quite obvious. We already achieved our goals two weeks ago. It doesn't matter if you learn the details. What's done is done. There's no way to change the outcome."

"Indeed. Do what you want with the data. You already provided us with some valuable combat data on our own. Consider this as a thanks for the battle." Relius said

"Hmph. How generous." Mitsuru scoffed.

"Download complete."

"All right, we got it!" Ruby cheered

"Now let's get out of here!" Weiss said.

"Renne, KeA! Grab your stuff and start running!" Yang nodded

"Gotcha!" KeA nodded

"Yeah, yeah. I'm coming!" Renne said as she got up and got her terminal and turn to Noel. "It's nice to see you again. Noel. Hope that one day we can have a nice tea party like we used to."

Noel smiled as he put away his sword as he tossed it in the air it already disappeared as he placed his hand on his hip. "Yeah. Same. I'm looking forward to it whenever that happens."

"Major Claire. It was nice seeing you again." Weiss said.

"Give your sister my regards." Claire said.

"Cornelia... if you did kill my grandfather... I will avenge him." Elie threatened her.

"Haha! Go right ahead. I'll be waiting." Cornelia smirked.

(BGM ended)

Then Renne and the others begin to leave but Elie stop to look at Mariabell one last time.

"It's good to see you again, Bell... However, you're the absolute worst!" Elie remarked

Mariabell put away her staff. "Teehee! Why thank you! I wholeheartedly agree. Love you, Elie. We'll see each other again soon."

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Roots of Scars)

And then Elie left while Claire, Alberich, Cornelia, Relius, Noel and Mariabell gather up, seeing the party fleeing the scene.

"That was quite the entertaining encounter. It's not every day you meet so many interesting people." Alberich said. "Espcually those Persona users. Never thought even a dog can summon a persona."

"Indeed. That dog's soul is quite strong. It fascinating." Relius nodded.

"Indeed. I'm looking forward to encountering them again." Cornelia nodded

"Through it seemed like there was a touch of drama in the end." Alberich turn to Mariabell and Noel.

"I suppose so. It's a bit of a long story. But what's between me and the SSS is none of your concern." Mariabell replied. "Don't worry. It won't stop me from helping with the Great Twilight and the Rivalries. Though I'm none too pleased about having to work alongside someone who stole hundreds of years of technology from my family."

Alberich laugh. "I take it you're talking about the homunculus technology? Well, you don't have any grounds to complain there. After all, where did the technology for your Cradle come from? On top of that, your use of Septium veins for the Wisdom project seems suspiciously familiar."

"Oh, touche! Teehee!"

"Perhaps we make a good team after all."

"Considering how twisted the two of you are. It makes sense you two get along." Noel replied. "It wouldn't surprised me if you two, Cornelia and Relius became best friends."

"Aww, feeling jealous little boy?" Cornelia asked

"Careful you. The only people who can treat me like a kid are my sisters and my mother. While we are still not happy to see you and Epimenides, we are your allies so let's get along... for now."

"By all means."

"Speaking off, Relius. You wouldn't mind telling me about your Ignis weapon and your knowledge of Alchemy? The topic was very fascinating. You wouldn't mind teaching me a few things?" Mariabell asked.

"Should the occasion arise, I'll oblige. But know I expected something in return." Relius said.

"Aww, but aren't we friends Mr. Mad Puppeteer?"

'Why must I surround myself with insane people... let alone the Icy Maiden?' Noel thought

Then the group heard a ringtone calling.

"Ah, pardon me." Claire pick up her ARCUS Alpha and begin to answer it. "Lechter? Yes, everything is proceeding as planned. Informed the government that the Bracers have ignore our warning. So please keep a close eye on their HQ and the SSS officer' movements."

"The Icy Maiden, hm? She certainly piqued my interest." Mariabell said. "Despite her title, it's clear she can only just barely hold her feelings in. She's walking a thin tightrope."

"Well, many events have transpired in such a short time." Alberich nodded. "Events both fateful and final that cannot be undone."

"And yet, despite all of that. Deep down. She's on the verge of collapse." Noel replied, folding his eyes and his eyes shirt to his left and look sad. "Not just her. But Scarecrow as well."

"Well, she is rather fond of that little rabbit creature you created Alberich. And now that she's gone, it's only a matter of time before she breaks down into tears." Cornelia replied

"Hmph. That is how humans work." Relius said.

"Right! You take care too." Claire nodded before she hung up and noticed an orbmail. 'Huh. I haven't checked my primate orbmails in a while.' She pressed the icon. 'This one is from... two weeks ago?' She answered it and she noticed a voicemail and saw who it was and she looked shocked to answer it.

"Sup Claire!" Millim's voice replied. "I'm probably about to get crazy busy with work soon, so I figured I should send you this now. It's a picture we took together in Heimdallr! I probably shoulda sent it sooner, but oh well, I forgot!"

"Ah..." Claire gasped as she looks heartbroken as it revealed it's a picture of her, Rean and Millim eating ice cream together as her hand shook. 'It's from when Rean and Millim helped me with that undercover operation... Afterward... we went to go get ice cream together and...' Then she begin to let out her tears as she cry in sorrow.


With the Party...

Lloyd and his team look into the data and many of them are shocked.

"Aidios..." Lloyd clench his teeth. "THIS is what really happened in Heimdallr?"

"No way..." Ruby covered her mouth as her tears came out. "They sacrifice Millium to make her into a sword..?"

"And... Rean used that sword to slay that Holy Beast with it?!" Blake asked.

"And as a result... the Great Twilight began..." Elie muttered.

"And the Cursed of the End spread throughout the Empire." Eula sighed as she look pissed. "To think the Empire have commuted such evil..."

"No... Not the Empire. I think is Osborne and his group." Yang said as her hands is shaking, holding in her anger. "What happened to Millium... cause Rean to... fall into rage... and his power must have over taken him."

"Yeah... You're right." Weiss said.

"And... there was the third survive of Hamel..." Joshua said, looking sad. "So he was alive, after all... How could we not have noticed? We left him behind..."

"As appalling as this information is... we need to send this to Kokonoe." Mitsuru said. "In addition to that. This war won't be just between Erebonia and Calvard... But the entire world."

"Looks like it." Aoi sighed as Mitsuru called Kokonoe.

"Professor Kokonoe. We have the data... However, it's unsettling news. We're sending it to you know." Mitsuru said as she sent it.

"Hmm..." Kokonoe hummed before she look annoyed. "Just as Palutena said..."

"Palutena? Wait you knew about this?!" Yang asked

"Yeah. Palutena informed me two weeks ago when the Great Twilight happened. I should have known it was the same thing."

"If you known about this, why didn't you tell us this before?" Lloyd asked

"It concerns the entire world! What's more... Cornelia... she'll-!"

"So that bitch is there too? Typical." Kokonoe muttered. "Anyway, I WAS going to tell you, but after that shit happened, I was thinking how to prepare countermeasures. So don't blame me on that. What we need to do now is figure out how to stop the Empire."

"You're right." KeA nodded. "A lot of crazy stuff happened in Heimdallr, but I still believe Tio, and Randy are okay. The same for your friends. Tita and Agate. And we know those Class VII guys too! What's more, we have many friends our side. The Mushroom Kingdom, Smash Bros Castle... I know if all of us put our heads together, we can overcome this."

"Yes, you're right." Noel Vermillion smiled. "Now that we know... it was already a plan for the Empire to destroy the world and everyone included."

"You took another peek at causality, didn't you?" Joshua asked.

"I don't know how reliable that is, but it makes me feel a little better." Joshua said.

"All right, with Mission accomplished, used the teleportation device and get out of there." Kokonoe said.

"Understood." Lloyd nodded. "All right everyone. Now that we have this. we've got a long road ahead of us. Let's get started!"

"With how things are... war will be in full swing within two months at the lastest." Ken said.

"If the details about this curse is true, anyway." Tsubaki said.

"Yes. I expected it would take at least a year after conscription started. But with the supernatural forces are at work, it may happen much more swiftly." Makoto said.

"We're gonna go report this info to Guild HQ and Liberl's royal family." Estelle said. "So what about you guys?"

"We'll share the intel with Princess Peach. She can share this intel with Calvard, Remifieria, Fodlan, all of the country in the world." Lloyd answered

"Good thing Professor Kokonoe thought of this possibility. Now we don't have to do the hard work." Renne said.

"Yeah, yeah. Just hurry up and used the damn teleporter when you exit the elevator." Kokonoe said as the elevator hang up and then they used the teleportation device and returned to Kokonoe.


And here comes the first chapter of another amazing Saga! Another story I wanted to create! Oh yeah, meet my new Oc Aoi Ryuji! Information about him will soon arrive. As well as another Trails of Adventure that lead to the event where Aoi first met the SSS! Oh boy... so many characters will be here... My head in spinning!

You know, that reminds me. Whenever I write about this and the Enemy file. I also wanted to give them their HP levels. So which is why I'm going to place in the HP as if they were in a video game.

Major Claire: The Icy Maiden, a member of the Ironbloods. She quickly precise strategies with her enhance cognition.

HP: 130695

Black Alberich: Chief of the Gnomes, in charge of the Black Workshop. Betrays Ouroboros and joins forces with Chancellor Osborne.

HP:185052

Mariabell the Wellspring: Third Anguis of Ouroboros and alchemist of ancient lineage. Childhood friends with Elie and familiar with the SSS.

HP:237924

Cornelia: Formal member of Organization XIII and an Agarthan from Fodlan ancient organization. Fake her death and aid Chancellor Osborne and the Black Workshop.

HP: 185052

Relius Clover: An Infamous man known as the Mad Puppeteer. He joined forces with Chancellor Osborne and the Black Workshop for his own amusement.

HP:339601

Noel the Undine: Enforcer No. XVIII, the Undine Prince. Son of the Steel Maiden and a childhood friend of Renne.

HP: 288639


Oh wait! I got a perfect little scene!


Alternative Scene...

"Please, the five of you. That's enough playing around. We're wasting time." Claire said as she got her Orbal Gun out and then activated the symbol on her eye as she glow with power.

(Trails of Cold Steel IV ost - Endure Grief)

"What the-" Aoi eye widen.

"That Emblem..." Joshua trailed off.

"I am the Icy Maiden, Claire Reveldt. On my authority as a member of the Ironblood. You're all under arrest for illegally accessing a restricted area." Claire declared.

"Here they come!" Estelle shout out.

"Some of us should keep Renne and KeA safe!" Blake stated.

"Be careful everyone!" KeA added

"Activate combat links! We will overcome this, no matter what!" Lloyd respond.

KeA then got a lightbulb picture. "Oh wait a minute everyone! I got a better idea! Quick! Cover your ears!"

"Huh? Why?" Ruby asked.

"You'll see! Now cover your ears!" KeA request, as the heroes covered their ears. "Jigglypuff, use Sing!"

(BGM ended)

"Jiiigglypuff Jiggaaaliilillpuff Jiiiigglypuff jiggaaaaliii~" KeA's Jigglypuff begin to used Sing as her singing voice echoes the Sector area.

"Uh oh!" Noel exclaimed.

"Really? You do you truly- Hm?!" Alberich suddenly felt sleepy. "Nngh... What?" He feels wobbling along with Cornelia, Claire, Relius, Mariabell and Noel. "W-What? What... is...*Yaaawn.*"

"Nnugh... It's... Jig...ga...li... *Yawn* I'm...tired." Noel yawned before his knees gave out and pass out on the ground along with Mariabell.

Then Claire, Cornelia, Relius and now Alberich begin to fell on the ground, sleeping.

"Okay Jigglepuff! You can stop singing now!" KeA called out as her Jigglypuff stop singing. "Okay everyone, you can uncover your ears now!"

The SSS and their friends uncover their ears and see Alberich, Claire, Cornelia, Relius, Mariabell and Noel are completely fallen asleep.

"Well, that's one way to avoid a battle. Sing them a magical song that put them to sleep." Joshua said.

"Well at least we wouldn't have to worry about them." Renne smirked. "With them out for the time being. Let's hack this baby up."


After a few minute have passed.

"Okay! The last matrix is finished!" KeA yelled

"Nice! I disable the Data protection!" Renne nodded and click

"Access granted. Beginning download of classified data."

"After all we have been through, that better not be just a bunch of junk data." Estelle replied

"I don't think they can, now that Jigglypuff put them to sleep." Elie said.

"But judging by the way they're acting, it's like they don't really care if we get this info." Joshua said.

"But why? Why go to such lengths to cover things up and then let us learn the truth?" Lloyd wondered "The truth about what happened in Heimdallr. Both on the surface and behind the scenes."

"We can figure that out after we read the data. We must leave now." Mitsuru told them.

"Download complete."

"All right, we got it!" Ruby cheered

"Now let's get out of here!" Weiss said.

"Renne, KeA! Grab your stuff and start running!" Yang nodded

"Gotcha!" KeA nodded

"Yeah, yeah. I'm coming!" Renne said as she got up and got her terminal and they all begin to ran.

Soon. Alberich and his group got back on their feet.

"Nngh... What happened...?" Alberich asked, has a drawing on a swirling eyes and mustache on his face, causing Noel and Mariabell to laughed at his face. "What are your wo laughing at? Wait... what is on your faces?"

"Look at you! Bwahaha!" Noel laughed as Mariabell conjured a mirror and Alberich see his face.

"What?!" Alberich yelled. "Why those fools...! I will make them pay!"


Haha! That's one way to avoid the fight!